Mining could be made environmentally friendly-Professor

Tarkwa (W/R), Oct. 1, GNA- Professor Newton Amegbey, Pro Vice Chancellor of the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT), Tarkwa, on Friday said environmental effects of mining could be mitigated if stakeholders follow policies regulating the industry. He was delivering a lecture under the theme "The Synchronicity of Mining and Environmental Care: Realities and the Way Forward" at Tarkwa. Professor Amegbey said the policies must be explicitly stated and mines must operate according to the laid-down regulations in their Environmental Management Plan.

He said environmental affairs should rank in equal importance with operational functions, and the mines should deploy the "Best available technology" to minimize environmental degradation. Professor Amegbey said the mines must "Demonstrate commitment to the execution of Environmental Impact Statements and other environmental documents".

They should also "Explain the exact nature and extent of activities to the public at an early stage of the venture in order to build credible relationships with land owners", he said. Professor Amegbey said modern technology has accelerated the pace and efficiency of mining.

He said mining is not environmentally unfriendly as it used to be, since technological solutions to air and water pollution as well as land degradation are now available.

Professor Amegbey said all stakeholders should ensure that mining does not affect the environment, since it contributes a lot to the economy. He said modern mining has the capacity to address most environmental impacts by promoting the use of technology to sustain it. Professor Amegbey urged environmental organizations to come out with their concerns and the needed checklist. He asked the government to adequately resource environmental regulatory bodies to carry out their mandate and to move towards environmentally friendly energy systems to reduce global warming. Professor Amegbey charged the media to present the realities concerning the vital role of mining in society adding, "The industry should no longer be judged by its past performance but rather, we need to look forward to the benefits it holds for us all". 1 Oct. 07